China to Launch New Aircraft Carrier and Destroyer in Coming Months

This photo taken on May 18, 2018 shows tugs guiding China's first domestically manufactured aircraft carrier, known as "Type 001A", as it returns to port in Dalian in China's northeastern Liaoning province after its first sea trial. AFP via Getty Images

China is set to launch a new aircraft carrier and destroyer in the coming months, continuing the rapid expansion of its naval forces. Experts believe that foreign investments in China could be fueling the construction of the ships.

China’s third aircraft carrier, the Type 003, will likely be ready for launch in three to six months, according to analysis of satellite images by the Washington-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).